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The goal of URJ’s Introduction to Judaism program is to empower seekers - individuals and couples - to explore Judaism. Weekly classes are augmented by Shabbat programs and additional experiential components.

Participants

Classes are diverse. All are welcome. Participants include singles and couples, Jews and those from various faith backgrounds. The LGBT-friendly class is also perfect for individuals raising Jewish children, those who never had a Jewish education, individuals who want to explore their Jewish roots or those who or want to explore Judaism on an adult-level.

Impact

After completing the 16-20 week Introduction to Judaism program, students were surveyed and the results show that:

86.5 percent are more likely to create a Jewish home

76 percent of the non-Jews are more likely to choose Judaism as a religion

95.98 percent feel more likely to engage in Jewish practice in their home

96.5 percent feel more likely to attend Shabbat or holiday services

96.98 percent are more likely to celebrate Jewish life cycle events

Community Collaboration

Introduction to Judaism classes are sponsored by the URJ and a consortium of URJ-affiliated congregations. URJ staff facilitate collaboration among rabbis and congregations to offer Introduction to Judaism classes in many communities.